How can you expect dental services to change for each person in your family?
A Healthy Start For Children
In order to help your child have a lifelong of great dental health you will need to help them achieve good oral care from the very beginning.
Starting with their first visit (ideally at six months of age) and all through their school-aged years, we work with them to keep their smile healthy. We provide regular cleanings and exams and review proper preventive hygiene techniques at each appointment to ensure their teeth receive appropriate care at home.
If your child has a high risk of dental diseases or decay then we will likely ask to see them more frequently.
Preventive Care For Teens
As your teen begins to navigate the world on their own they will need to become more responsible for themselves and this includes their own dental care. Preventive dental care will continue as they see the dentist every 9 months or so.
As many teens are concerned about their appearance at this age and having a healthy, white smile, we will educate them about the connection between dental hygiene practices and the appearance of their smiles.
If orthodontic care is needed, teens will be referred to an orthodontist for assessment and perhaps require treatment with braces, clear aligners, a retainer or other appliances.
Restorative Dental Care For Adults
Many people develop early-stage gum disease in adulthood, potentially resulting in painfully swollen gums and other oral health issues. Preventive care should continue to be top of mind for adults, including at-home care and regular visits to dentists for hygiene cleanings.
Many people will need their wisdom teeth removed in early adulthood. Sometimes, oral surgery, specialized care, appliances or other treatments will be recommended for specific issues such as TMJ Disorder or sleep apnea.
If restorative services such as crowns, bridges or fillings are required, we are happy to offer these and address any questions and concerns you may have.
Ongoing Monitoring For Senior Dental Health
Just like the rest of your body, your teeth will change as you get older. This can increase your risk of developing dental health problems, including:
- Dry mouth (caused by medications)
- Need for tooth replacements or dentures
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease or periodontitis
As you get older you may experience a decrease in tooth sensitivity due to the shrinking of the nerves within the teeth. This is because the nerves in your teeth can shrink as you get older. Conversely, if gum tissue recedes this could cause your teeth to become more sensitive as root tissue is left exposed.
If plaque is allowed to build up on your teeth it can lead to a number of other issues and serious concerns. A dentist can examine your smile and help address these by recommending appropriate treatments such as dental implants, restorative services, a gum graft, gum therapy or oral surgery.